Set in the early 20th century, the novel is an epistolary tale of a young African-American woman named Celie, living in the South. She faces constant abuse and hardship, first from her father and then from her husband. The story unfolds through her letters written to God and her sister Nettie, revealing her emotional journey from oppression to self-discovery and independence, aided by her relationships with strong women around her. The narrative explores themes of racism, sexism, domestic violence, and the power of sisterhood and love.

The novel explores the spiritual isolation of misfits and outcasts in a small town of the U.S. South. Its protagonist is a deaf-mute who becomes the confidant for various troubled souls including a black physician, a bitter labor activist, a lonely young girl, and a struggling café owner. Each pours their heart out to him, but he remains unable to respond, reflecting the deep human need for connection and understanding.

The novel is a fictionalized account of a real-life Sudanese refugee, Valentino Achak Deng, who was forced to flee from his village during the Second Sudanese Civil War. The story follows his harrowing journey as a child through Ethiopia and Kenya, his life in various refugee camps, and his eventual resettlement in the United States. The book explores themes of survival, identity, and the power of storytelling, while shedding light on the tragic history and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

"Tobacco Road" is a novel that explores the lives of the Lester family, destitute sharecroppers in the rural American South during the Great Depression. Their desperate attempts to survive in the harsh and unforgiving environment, marked by poverty, ignorance, and starvation, are depicted with brutal honesty. The book is a poignant commentary on the socio-economic conditions of the time, highlighting the grim realities of a marginalized society.

This novel explores the harrowing journey of an African American man in the rural South, who, after years of enduring economic hardship and the oppressive racial dynamics of the mid-20th century, abandons his family in search of a better life. The narrative delves into the consequences of his actions, particularly on his wife and son, and examines the cycle of violence, poverty, and despair that plagues his community. As he returns home years later, seeking redemption and a third chance at life, the story poignantly addresses themes of resilience, the impact of systemic racism, and the possibility of personal transformation amidst seemingly insurmountable challenges.

"Praying for Sheetrock" is a non-fiction narrative that tells the story of racial tension and civil rights struggles in a small coastal town in Georgia during the 1970s. It focuses on the experiences of the African American community who, led by a charismatic shrimp boat worker, stand up against the corruption and racial discrimination perpetrated by the town's white sheriff and his deputies. The book provides an intimate portrayal of the town's residents, their hardships, and their fight for justice and equality.

This book is a powerful memoir that recounts the harrowing and inspiring life of an African American man who survived a lynching attempt in the Jim Crow South. Through vivid storytelling and compelling artwork, the narrative explores themes of racism, perseverance, and the transformative power of art. The author's journey from a cotton picker in Georgia to a celebrated artist offers a unique perspective on the American civil rights movement, showcasing his resilience and creativity in the face of systemic oppression. This memoir not only serves as a testament to the author's strength and spirit but also highlights the enduring impact of racial injustice in America.